India's Diplomatic Engagement with Taliban 2.0

India announced the upgrade of its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged diplomatic mission, marking a significant step towards potentially recognizing Taliban 2.0.

High-Level Meeting

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi.
• This meeting represents the first high-level engagement since the Taliban took power in 2021.
• Muttaqi announced plans for the Taliban to post a diplomat and eventually appoint an ambassador to New Delhi.

Regional Dynamics and Security

The meeting occurred amid increased tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, highlighted by:

• Pakistan's cross-border strikes in Afghanistan.
• Muttaqi's warning against testing Afghan resilience, referencing historical conflicts involving the Soviet Union, the US, and NATO.
• Emphasis on not allowing Afghan territory to be used against another country, urging dialogue with Pakistan.

Counterterrorism and Peace Efforts

• Both countries condemned regional terrorism and stressed the importance of peace, stability, and mutual trust.
• Afghanistan was thanked for condemning a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

Development and Cooperation Initiatives

• India plans to enhance development aid with projects including:
   
  • A 30-bed hospital, an oncology centre, and a trauma centre in Kabul.
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  • Five maternity clinics in Paktika, Khost, and Paktia.
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• Additional aid includes 20 ambulances, medical treatments for Afghan nationals, and support in rebuilding earthquake-hit areas.

Strategic and Economic Collaborations

• Muttaqi ruled out reopening the Bagram base to the US, suggesting diplomatic ties instead.
• Highlighting Iran's Chabahar Port as vital for trade with India and potential collaboration on lifting related sanctions.
• Agreements to enhance cooperation on hydroelectric projects, trade expansion, and cultural exchanges, with a focus on sports like cricket.